Hail Mary Gentle Woman

This hymn by American Catholic writer Carey Landry (b 1944) combines the text of the traditional Hail Mary prayer with other reflections about Mary (some from scripture, others from tradition). It is based on Luke 1:28.

It was first published in 1975 by North American Liturgy Resources (rights are now owned by OCP) and it has been included in several books from GIA Publications also. Sheet music is available for download from OCP in various formats.

With irregular meter it is set to a tune by Landry which was originally published in the key of G. The first few notes in this key are A, DDD GFE D_.

Lyrics

The first verse is the traditional Hail Mary text. This is followed by the chorus, and this is repeated after each of the two remaining verses. A rough outline is:

Hail Mary, full of grace,
The Lord is with you.
Blessed are you among women
And blest is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary Mother of God,
Pray for us sinners now
And at the hour of our death.
Amen.